3 things learned as Manchester United dispatch Chelsea 2-0 in FA Cup

Manchester United defeated Chelsea at Stamford Bridge for the first time in 10 games on Monday evening to progress to the quarterfinals of the FA Cup. There were some top performances on display, but what did we learn from the match?

Ander Herrera’s MOTM display was best in a United shirt

Martin Keown was given the luxury of picking a Manchester United player worthy of the Man of the Match award during Monday night’s win over Chelsea. The BBC co-commentator elected for Paul Pogba, who had a major hand in both goals.

Despite how popular the Frenchman is amongst United fans, it was Ander Herrera who received the most adulation post-match, and rightly so. The Spaniard covered every blade of grass from minute one to ninety.

His energy set the tone for the rest of the players, leading by example from the off. But not only was his passion clear to see, his ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions thwarted Chelsea’s momentum and helped United orchestrate the game.

The stats back it up too. According to WhoScored.com, Herrera made the most tackles and ariel duels, joint-most clearances, second-highest interceptions and joint-most blocked shots.

Many fans claim it was a performance worthy of becoming the next permanent club captain. Many more like it and he won’t be far away at all.